Utilitas Case Study
The first full value chain hydrogen production system in the Baltic States
In this section you will get a glimpse of a real-world case study featuring Utilitas where we showcase the successful commissioning of a turn-key Hydrogen System. Learn from their experiences, challenges faced, and the strategies adopted to implement the first full value chain demo project in the Baltic States.
About Utilitas
Utilitas is a leading producer of renewable heat and electricity and provides district heating and cooling across Estonia. Offering solutions that are good for customers and the environment, produce and distribute energy as efficiently as possible, and use renewable and local energy sources to the maximum possible extent. Their mission is to reduce the environmental impact of energy consumption by enabling the convenient and affordable use of sustainably produced energy.
Why Stargate
As Estonia’s leading district heating provider, Utilitas is committed to future-ready, low-carbon infrastructure. When seeking a hydrogen partner, they prioritized a provider that could deliver a robust, reliable system under challenging conditions. Stargate Hydrogen was selected for its technical expertise, track record of trustworthy delivery, and ability to meet tight implementation timelines.
Overview
As Estonia’s leading district heating provider, Utilitas is committed to future-ready, low-carbon infrastructure. When seeking a hydrogen partner, they prioritized a provider that could deliver a robust, reliable system under challenging conditions. Stargate Hydrogen was selected for its technical expertise, track record of trustworthy delivery, and ability to meet tight implementation timelines.
Solution
Stargate Hydrogen delivered a containerised, turnkey hydrogen production system with 1MW capable of producing 432 kg of hydrogen per day. The system includes:
- On-site hydrogen purification for fuel-cell grade output
- A heat recovery module connected to the Utilitas heating network, increasing overall energy efficiency
- Capability to fill multi-element gas containers (MEGCs) for off-site transport.
Challenges
- Tight urban site requiring compact design and precise logistics
- Harsh Estonian winter weather during system installation
- Complex coordination with external suppliers for system components and commissioning
Outcome
The system was delivered and commissioned and is now fully operational, with high-purity hydrogen production ongoing. The heat recovery integration is active, supplying clean thermal energy to local residents and improving Utilitas’ system-wide efficiency.
